Expert: Marc Ebelini - 11/23/2007

Question
dear expert,

I'm very confused about separation point vs transition point in the airfoil.

what's the differences and combinations between them?

is transition point always before the separation point?

Answer
My studies of aerodynamics goes back to the 1940's so new terms are sometimes used. The transition point is a point of separation where the laminar flow becomes turbulent so that may be why the term is used. However the person teaching the course can be to one to ask to verify if that is what they meant when the term is introduced. Bernoulli's theory has been expanded upon to point where now complex equations are used to explain the new airfoil designs. I checked a few books to see if the term separation point is used and could not find one.
At super sonic speeds drag becomes more important than lift. The days of the old Clark "Y" are gone. Good luck with your studies of aerodynamics. Look up "Rutan" for the latest in aerodynamic designs.